As the Diesel Emits: Volkswagen Reportedly Made Different Versions of Cheating Software

A New Report Says Volkswagen Has Made Different Versions of the 'Cheating Software'

Reuters is reporting that Volkswagen developed several versions of its "defeat device" software for their diesel models. Three sources tell the news service the company used the different versions of the software on four diesel engine types. If this proves to be true, this could indicate a widespread cheating program at the company, not the rogue engineer claim that executives have been using as a defense.

This also puts Volkswagen in a difficult position when it comes to potential fines. If executives are found to play a role in the plot to cheat emissions tests, fines could increase by a fair amount.

"The more higher-ups that are involved, the more the company is considered blameworthy and deserving of more serious punishment," said Brandon Garrett, a corporate crime expert at the University of Virginia.

Spokespeople for Volkswagen and Volkswagen of America declined to comment, citing the ongoing investigations by itself and outside parties.